Linux File System Hierarchy: A Comprehensive Explanation

Nithidol Vacharotayan
9 min readOct 8, 2024
freepik

Introduction to the Linux file system hierarchy

As an avid Linux user, I’ve come to appreciate the power and versatility of this robust operating system. One of the key aspects that sets Linux apart is its well-organized and hierarchical file system structure. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll take you through the various directories that comprise the Linux file system hierarchy, explaining their purpose and significance.

The Linux file system hierarchy is a standardized way of organizing files and directories on a Linux system. It follows the Filesystem Hierarchy Standard (FHS), which defines the layout and organization of directories and files. This structure ensures consistency across different Linux distributions, making it easier for users and developers to navigate and understand the system.

By understanding the Linux file system hierarchy, you’ll better understand how your Linux system operates and where different types of files and configurations are stored. This knowledge is invaluable for system administration, troubleshooting, and customization tasks.

Understanding the root directory

The root directory, represented by the forward slash /, is the topmost directory in the Linux file…

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Nithidol Vacharotayan

Programming enthusiast with 10+ years of experience in Java loves sharing knowledge with others and exploring new technologies together!